Project Management Officer

Core Purpose of the Role: The primary objective of this position is to conduct feasibility studies for local production activities across Africa and to drive, plan, and implement production facilities on the continent. The role will also serve as a project manager for new business and strategic initiatives, leading cross-functional and cross-brand teams to strengthen and coordinate the Group's footprint in Africa. The incumbent will be responsible for negotiations with external stakeholders, including governmental authorities and production partners, as well as engaging key internal stakeholders. The role requires the evaluation of both internal and external factors impacting medium-term (up to 5 years) and long-term (beyond 5 years) strategic needs. Additionally, the incumbent will develop and present scenarios for executive-level decision-making. Key Responsibilities: Conduct feasibility studies for new and existing local production projects across African markets. Lead inter-divisional teams across different Group brands and cultures. Track and monitor project milestones and ensure alignment with Board-approved objectives. Anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions and alternatives by reviewing pending tasks and motivating teams to meet set targets. Represent the Group both internally and externally across various platforms. Negotiate and manage relationships with governmental and production partners. Collaborate with Group, Regional, Local, and external stakeholders to shape and implement the regional corporate strategy. Identify and assess new business opportunities to support sustainable development in Africa. Manage the evaluation and implementation of new production initiatives in the region. Support executive management in scheduling, coordinating, and monitoring internal resources to ensure successful project execution. Act as an internal consultant on high-priority strategic projects, analyzing factors influencing mid- to long-term business requirements. Qualification Requirements: Degree or diploma in Economics, Business Administration, Finance, Engineering, or a related field. Experience: Minimum of 5 years experience in project management or a strategic environment. Key Competencies & Skills: Proven experience in senior-level negotiation and decision-making. Strong financial and strategic analysis capabilities. Automotive industry experience is advantageous. Demonstrated ability to operate effectively across complex and diverse business environments. Strategic thinking with strong project execution capabilities. Sound judgment and decision-making skills. Excellent communication and leadership abilities across all organizational levels. Competence in managing and monitoring large-scale projects, identifying critical issues, and escalating when necessary. Ability to lead and motivate cross-divisional teams in high-pressure environments. Strong conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills. Experience representing an organization locally and internationally at senior levels. Cultural sensitivity and competence in cross-cultural negotiations. Capable of delivering impactful presentations to high-level audiences including heads of state, government ministers, and C-suite executives. Proficiency in analyzing external trends and developing actionable strategic insights. Experience in scenario planning and presentation for Board-level decisions.

Location: Uitenhage, ZA

Posted Date: 7/9/2025